Two years ago the independent school announced that from September 2015 it would only offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB).

But the school has announced that following the government’s recent proposals to improve the academic standards of the A-level curriculum, and after consulting staff, parents and prospective parents, it will offer both.

A spokesman said that from September 2015 Gresham’s students would be able to study either the IB or the new “enhanced” A-levels proposed by the government.

Nigel Flower, acting headmaster, said: “Our parents will be very pleased that we have responded to their comments and reconsidered our decision in light of the government’s proposals to make A-level study more rigorous from next year.

“This will ensure we can continue to offer every pupil a curriculum that offers a personalised experience through choice and guidance.”

In 2013, Gresham’s students at IB diploma and at A-level achieved an average of 35.3 (out of 45) at IB and 100pc of students gaining A- level passes of which 51.8pc achieved A* or A grades.

The spokesman added: “The school is committed to ensuring all students should be stretched academically and encourages academic aspiration at the highest levels.”